The demand for industrial automation, rising energy costs and improved understanding of the advantages of electric drives will encourage their uptake across Eastern Europe, Russia and CIS over 2012-2016.

A new analysis from Frost & Sullivan, called Electric Drives in Eastern Europe, Russia and CIS Market, finds that the market earned revenues of $472.5 million in 2011 and estimates this to reach $652.1 million in 2016. The research covers Alternative Current (AC), Direct Current (DC) and Servo Drives. AC drives are the largest product segment in the market.

Servo drives and AC drives maximise the cost-efficiency of production and reduce the operating costs of industrial processes. These types of drives are used in different frequency applications, and demonstrate superior energy performance.

Rising energy costs too are pressuring end users to enhance their energy-efficiency. This is training the spotlight on electric drives that support better energy performance. "In eastern Europe, electric drives are perceived as one of the best methods to save energy," explained Osipova. "The use of advanced electric drives has the potential to reduce energy consumption by 25 to 50%."

However, the high corruption index of CIS countries and Russia and the limited development of the private sector are impeding market development. Moreover, economic and political instability dampen the level of government and foreign investments.

"To successfully confront these challenges and limit the risks of establishing business in these regions, electric drives suppliers need to have a comprehensive understanding of the prevailing micro-environment," advised Osipova. "On a positive note, anticipated anti-corruption legislation and reduced red-tapism are set to create a more conducive environment for private sector participation."